“With all the changes that are occurring in health care, it is extremely important for future growth and survival that small rural hospitals have a relationship such as this with a larger hospital and health-care system,” Patrick A. Schlenker, chief executive officer at Northwest Florida Community Hospital, said in a release. “This relationship will enhance our ability to improve access for our community to quality health-care services.”

The 59-bed hospital in Chipley features a 24-hour emergency department. The hospital is one of eight in the state to have an accredited Hyperbaric Wound Treatment program, the release stated.

Cardiology services, emergency and inpatient transfer services are the highlights of the official partnership, Schlenker said in an interview, noting eventually stroke services will be added to the list.

“In addition to that, we’re going to be receiving medical education for all of our staff and training,” Schlenker said. “The partnership gives the community better access to specialists, medical and community education. And all of that is very positive.”

In the news release, Carlton Ulmer, president and chief executive officer at Gulf Coast Medical Center, expressed his feelings toward the new official partnership: “We are truly excited to form this partnership with Northwest Florida Community Hospital, and look forward to supporting advancements in the delivery of new health-care services.”